Principal Research Scientist: Signal Processing

Role Overview

RTX BBN is seeking a Signal Processing Research Scientist to join our Arlington, VA team. The role focuses on developing advanced signal processing solutions to support the Department of Defense, Intelligence Community, and industry customers. The position requires a U.S. citizen with an active Top Secret DoD security clearance.

• Statistical signal processing: design and implement estimation techniques (Bayesian, non-Bayesian), evaluate performance (bias, MSE, Cramer‑Rao bounds).
• Detection: develop Neyman‑Pearson detectors, calculate probabilities of detection and false alarm, construct receiver operating characteristics.
• Cyclostationary analysis: estimate CAF, SCF, SOF, compute cyclic cumulants, detect cyclic features.
• Adaptive processing: design temporal and space–time adaptive algorithms, estimate interference covariance (structured and reduced–rank), implement Wiener, LMS, RLS, Kalman, particle filtering and multi-hypothesis tracking.
• Machine learning and optimization for optimal control.
• RF propagation & signature modeling: link budgets, propagation models, multipath, Doppler spread, clock stability, phase noise, antenna pattern estimation, bistatic RCS estimation.
• Sensing: sparse array processing, beamforming, direction finding, filtering, tracking, Range‑Doppler radar, SAR, signal classification and recognition.
• Physical‑layer communications: modulation, channel estimation, MIMO, equalization, error correction, LPX waveform design, multi‑user detection.

• M.S. in Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or related field plus 5+ years of relevant experience; or Ph.D. plus 3+ years.
• Experience in signal processing (estimation, detection, adaptive algorithms) and RF modeling & sensing.
• Active Top Secret government security clearance.

• Willingness to travel overnight.
• Experience applying advanced R&D techniques to solve complex problems.
• Strong independent research skills with minimal supervision.
• Experience leading small technical teams.
• Documentation and presentation skills for government customers.

Onsite in Arlington, VA. Some overnight travel may be required.

$118,300 – $224,900 USD (dependent on experience).

Eligible for medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short‑term and long‑term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, parental leave, paid time off, holidays, and additional incentive programs.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.